Integration of a suite of sensors in a wireless health sensor platform

Abstract

In this paper we discuss the development and clinical evaluation of a wireless platform for health signs sensing. The sensors measure physical activity, ECG, blood oxygen saturation, temperature and respiratory rate. An important aspect of the approach is that the sensors are integrated into one waist-worn device. A mobile phone collects data from this device and uses data fusion in the scope of a decision support system to trigger additional measurements, classify health conditions or schedule future observations. In these decisions, the user's current physical activity plays an important role as the validity of many health signs measurements is strongly related to physical activity. Due to the integration of the sensors and the use of data fusion it is possible to accurately identify health risks and to react promptly. During clinical trials, for which proper ethical approval was obtained, the system was used by healthy elderly volunteers in Limerick (Ireland) and Ancona (Italy). Results of these trials are also discussed in this paper.